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Statement - Vimy Ridge Day

OTTAWA, April 9, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement commemorating Vimy Ridge Day:

"Today we remember the Battle of Vimy Ridge, fought over four days beginning April 9, 1917, which many believe marked Canada's coming of age as a nation. Of the 100,000 Canadians who fought in this First World War battle, more than 7,000 were wounded and nearly 3,600 lost their lives. Canadian bravery in the face of difficult circumstance was the hallmark of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, and has become the standard by which our Canadian Armed Forces operate today.

"While we can never fully appreciate what our soldiers experienced at the Battle of Vimy Ridge, 99 years ago, we will remember and honour them. We are forever indebted to those who served and those who sacrificed their lives in defence of our country. Many paid the ultimate sacrifice to help ensure the peace and freedom for which Canada is recognized around the world.

"Every year, on this day, communities across Canada pay tribute to the soldiers who fought at Vimy Ridge. The courage of our Canadian heroes will never be forgotten."